What are Statutory Rape Laws and Related Charges

What is statutory rape?

There is no specific “statutory rape” statute. The term commonly refers to the act of sex being a crime only because of the ages of the parties, not because force, coercion, or violence was used. Usually what the crime associated with this term is Fourth or Fifth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, and means sex between someone who is underage and someone just barely 18, or two people under the age of 18. The most common example is the freshman in college that hooks up with someone still in high school.

While some may make light of allegations of “statutory rape” because they think kids shouldn’t be criminalized for engaging in sexual activity, the charges of Criminal Sexual Conduct, are serious and carry significant penalties.

If you have been accused of statutory rape, it’s important for you to talk to a sex crimes defense lawyer as soon as possible to explain your rights and options. Catherine is an experienced criminal defense lawyer who has represented many clients charged with “statutory rape” and can help you. Call today for a free consultation.

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Do I need a lawyer if I’m charged with a sex crime?

YES! Accusations of criminal sexual conduct can have immediate consequences, such as the separation of family members or the loss of employment. Convictions for the same can have far reaching collateral consequences for the rest of a person’s life, including loss of housing or licensures, social isolation, and financial hardship. To adequately defend these charges, a defendant needs a lawyer with experience.

When Catherine represents people charged with sex crimes, she talks to them about what happened from their perspective and puts together a defense strategy that often involves talking to witnesses, gathering social media evidence, and making special motions in court.

She understands that accusations of rape, solicitation, or any other sex crime can ruin someone’s life and she’s committed to helping people fight the charges. She has won serious criminal sexual conduct trials, gotten charges dismissed, and kept people out of prison.

She knows how to work a case, and will help resolve the matter in the best interests of the client. Not every case ends up in trial, and Catherine is just as committed to negotiating a resolution that works for the client as she is to winning in front of a jury. Every situation is different and requires a unique approach. She will customize a defense that works for every client.

Catherine is an experienced criminal defense lawyer that defends against all criminal sexual conduct, solicitation, child pornography, and other sex crimes in state and federal court. If you or someone you love has been accused of a sex crime, Catherine can help. Call for a free consultation.